How to get out of the bathtub with arthritic knees

Links to make your life easier:
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Non slip tread stickers: amzn.to/3ulS5BM
Bathtub shower mat: amzn.to/3ESnVee
Hot tub cushion: amzn.to/3umNvmE
Bathtub cushion: amzn.to/3XV1jCs
Join Dr. Alyssa Kuhn as she shows you how to get out of the bathtub if you have knee arthritis or have a hard time kneeling. You'll also learn one trick you can use to be able to get in and out of the bathtub if it is really low or a deep tub.
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Disclaimer: This post is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, and prescription or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Kuhn and you. You should not make any change in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Move Well Age Well, LLC and Dr. Alyssa Kuhn, PT, DPT are not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any conclusions drawn, services or product you obtain through this post, video or site. Complete all exercises at your own risk.

[@Yolocontendre]

Great idea, everyone has their own way of getting out or up. the fact that you started people thinking about how their limitations might achieve a bath is priceless. A warm bath with epsom salts is so very healing for arthritis. Feeling empowered to use our body in a way that safely works for us is likely to make our sleep, activity and mood better. Thank you❤

[@arthritisadventure]

Thanks for sharing and you're so welcome!

[@lindsaylaverty9843]

I haven’t been in the bath tub for a couple of years. Thank you for your wonderful videos. I’m going to give it a go, as I really miss having a bath. 💕

[@lindadavis5668]

I strap on knee pads, ( after draining the tub.) I then dry off fairly well while in the tub. Dry area around you, tub, etc. Have a make shift padding when rolling out of tub. Real thick carpet and a towel, blanket, etc. piled on top of each other. I keep drying area on floor. Better to take a few more minutes to avoid an injury. P.S. I take Tylenol 2 hours before bath, and before getting dressed, rub Voltaren Gel, OTC. on painful joints, or topical cream or patch. 😊

[@toyaturner6826]

If l take a bath, l'm taking a shower afterwards to wash the dirty water off.

[@jpatpat9360]

@@lindadavis5668 impossible if you can't kneel at all

[@aalemap1]

😮​@@toyaturner6826

[@marquitalarson2547]

SUPER helpful. It has been a long time since I’ve been able to take a bath.

[@arthritisadventure]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jeanniepurcella8363]

😢🎉 the f🎉🎉iui iui jbnblooo OP I 8 U uuyuuu I OP loop NY iou😅

[@PatNewman1000]

You are so generous with your videos. This one is so helpfull for safety in the bath.

[@arthritisadventure]

Hope it helps!

[@ravent3016]

I do this, but I also use a folded, dry towel on the end of the tub as padding and to help grip in case the edge of the tub and my hands are wet.

[@arthritisadventure]

Whatever works best for you! ♥️

[@mariateresasalvi9672]

Thank you so much!!! I've been on Amazon for hours looking for something to help with no help. I was looking into a bathtub cut out too. Definitely going to do a dry run tomorrow.

[@teresacrowley4076]

Thanks a million for taking the time to make this video. Greatly appreciate you making this. Ive never seen a video on how to safely get out of a bath. Im struggling for years with it. 🙏🙏🙏

[@arthritisadventure]

I hope this helps!!

[@lin5683-d4m]

Omg it worked, thank you so much. No longer turning around and getting up on mu knees 😊

[@arthritisadventure]

yep!

[@mikec2810]

This is so helpful! I subscribed to your channel because of how you explain everything and how helpful your videos have been! Thanks so very much for taking the time to share these with us!

[@Janetl62]

Thank you so much! I needed this one and will use your techniques on getting out. I am definitely going to get some of the foam to sit on to bring myself up and keep some water in the tub.

[@arthritisadventure]

Hot tub cushions can also work great too!

[@opinionated4219]

I'm looking forward to trying this method. It looks so simple and the idea of adding some cushioning makes a lot of sense. My only continuing concern is not being strong enough to pull myself up, but maybe your method will eliminate that issue. Thank you!

[@a.s3523]

Thank you so much for this video 🙏🏽😇💐 I have fibromyalgia & another condition & having a bath is an important part of my pain management, & something I really enjoy for the relaxation so also good for my mental health which I do need help with sometimes because chronic health conditions can be such a challenge to cope with. The council (I'm in the UK) changed our baths recently & they're now smaller in length & width so there's no room to turn onto my knees, the handles have moved into an awkward place, & the edge/rim seems extra slippery for some reason. Even without the pain/mobility issues it's difficult to get out of these new baths without a strategy! Before finding this video I literally sat in the bath wondering how on earth I was going to get out! I obviously managed it eventually, although it was a mini miracle & unsafe as I did slip a couple of times. I watched a couple other vids first that weren't what I needed. I'm so grateful to have found this vid, I do a slight variation of this but without it as a guide I would never have been able to use the new bath again.

[@jpatpat9360]

I haven't been able to bath for more than 5 years and I really miss it. What you haven't considered is when one has no strength in the arms because of arthritis in the shoulder joints. Also hauling yourself out of a bath full of water - its harder to pull yourself out of water than an empty bath. I live alone and have nobody to help me. Arthritis it seldom confined to only one joint - you are lucky if its only your knees

[@dthomas4501]

Just found this very helpful site and was reading the comments and saw yours. I too live alone (the dog is not going to help me) so your situation resonated with me, lol. I am on the local commission on aging and an researching this topic for people in our area. I think the hints she gave in this video were great but you are quite right about the additional issue if you don't have arm strength. I'm a bath nut! I take showers to refresh but I need a bath to relax so I am further research automatic bathtub chairs. There is a video on KZbin about one but I have yet to see a video about another one that has a swivel seat for even more convenient access. There are a bunch of them on Amazon but I would like to find a showroom so I can try it before I recommend it to the folks in my town. One of these might work for you but read the return policy carefully. We are all used to the easy returns on Amazon but some of these bath products cost $400+ and require that you pay the postage ($200+) if you need to return it. That is why I need to test before I recommend. Here is a link to one product that I'm researching.: www.amazon.com/Tranquilo-Electric-SAFESWIVEL-Rotating-Capacity/dp/B086P7VNGH/ref=sr_1_6?crid=1FW7W3HHDSISV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.r90-eScaQfvhjndW7O99gMQHGN9pWBSzexaCFQVcZ8yNzQu6s-EKeEWvuUU7IDmrn8l2o5C1jZ_LgKBFRD_Ccc9RUFYYGQ4xrsWz1yGTjuqsV_fRS3nqhfscLYHTASRlACInWBRp2BSkCTCnculzt9ru6BlRqT6BbA-MS-eVgAJBhR6IkWYrNFPRgdzRD7R4l9RvQmVu00UigqnC-os4wysaY_l3ShzcLJjbYLJHE83GwUSEk07Ve6K_9JB5qJkQV1KrLDPn9_lltnnYEqj7blkoD_JLv43nUe84Ba_S3co.BXNk9NKwsYSFbVYyLJf2LPiRSxQxr7k8sFo7q3v7Q4I&dib_tag=se&keywords=bathtub+automatic+chairs+for+the+elderly&qid=1714085038&sprefix=bathtub+automated+chairs+for+the+elderly%2Caps%2C121&sr=8-6&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.1740e8b9-be2d-46a4-a376-9d8efb903409

[@jpatpat9360]

@@dthomas4501 so nice to make contact with someone like you. I'm in South Africa unfortunately and there are no support systems here other than committing oneself to an assisted-living old age home, which not only would I hate as it means being confined to a room but is also hellish expensive which I couldn't afford. I'm a widow in her 70s and live in sn apartment; my only child (son) emigrated to the UK in 2022 and I'm not allowed in even though they are well off. My lae husband dudn't leave me a pension so I survive but am not comfortably off. I try to be positive but the future feels s bit scary being totally alone and no close friends neatby. A possible solution to thd bath isdur would be a type of Japanese bath, which is basically a sitz bath. I used to have a construction business and also a designer. I believe one could build a modified type of Japanese bath out of brick and cement and have smooth lines and then fibreglassed. Basicailly you'd be seated, with 2 grab rails on either side, but with a long enough seat so you could be seni-reclined but fully under water up to your neck. I don't know if you can visualise? A proper Japanese bath wouldn't suit as its only for siakung not washing - you have to shower first. Hope this gives yoh some ideas. I'd thought of an British bath lift but they're expensive and our exchange rate here is bad making it unaffordable, and I have an oval bath so probably wouldn't suit

[@jpatpat9360]

@@dthomas4501 sent you a nice long reply with an idea fot a Japanese bath and it seems to have been taken down - totally gone! Not going to try again...

[@dthomas4501]

​@jpatpat9360 I rarely understand how these sites work. Thanks for the effort. I will try to google the item. Hope we both find something because there are few things as relaxing as a nice warm bath!!!

[@jpatpat9360]

@@dthomas4501 thx. Unfortunately I live in South Africa... even if I could order a bath through Amazon it would be exorbitantly expensive with our shocking exchange rate.

[@Kathryn.K]

I already know I wouldn't be able to do this, aside from the issues I have with my knees I also have bad shoulders especially the one I have limited mobility with that arm and with the technique you're showing a person would have to have good shoulders with no issues especially the arm furthest from the floor that's being extended more.

[@sallybowman1581]

Thank you so much for this. I thought I would never be able to soak in the bath again. Will be doing a dry run to try this ( when my husband is around!)

[@arthritisadventure]

It can be possible to enjoy baths again! ♥️

[@charlestonscnative9083]

Great tips! I will try a dry run tomorrow. 🤞 I have missed having a long soak instead of just showers; it's been over a year. Thanks for sharing this with us!

[@arthritisadventure]

You’re so welcome!

[@TheGinbibi]

Just did a quick dry run. It worked pretty well! I don’t have a textured tub, so will try again tomorrow with pool shoes that are textured

[@arthritisadventure]

That’s a great idea with the pool shoes

[@mariefc8504]

Wow! Thank you. ❤ I had a LTKR 7 weeks ago and have just been cleared for baths, pools and hot springs! I am going to try this.

[@catherinesmith4659]

I had both of my knees replaced and as of yet it is very painful to kneel on them have not had a bath in years I always take a shower I still like to bathe in the shower but I love to soak I am going to try this and hopefully it works I appreciate your time and your knowledge thank you ever so much

[@sunseekermama]

This is such a helpful video! I was wondering if you have one for how to get INTO the bathtub?

[@probrinzine]

Super helpful! I was looking for ways to get out of my inground pool that doesn't have a ladder but has a landing. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

[@Mary-el3pi]

I just found these videos and immediately subscribed! I love taking baths but have resorted to turning around and getting on my knees to « haul » myself out of the tub. Hope to try this tonight! Now to find the videos about your hips not working after sitting for a while!!

[@arthritisadventure]

I'm so glad you're a new subscriber! Welcome and I'm glad you like the videos!

[@laurenjordan7349]

Thank you for this video.

[@yubantwo2086]

After breaking my shoulder, I couldn't take a bath for more than a year, and in that time, my hip osteoarthritis sealed the deal. If my hips are lower than my knees, I am practically paralyzed ('just watched your demonstration about getting up from low chairs. I can't keep my heels on the ground while propelling myself up.). "You look very young but move like an old person," I was told 12 years ago already. I still look young until I move. Your tips are helping to give me hope of regaining mobility even if, ultimately, I may be forced to have hip replacement).

[@markhetz1119]

Oh my I love the cushion idea I’m 56 and having major problem with my knee

[@carmelabologna9051]

Please, please can you show how to GET INTO the tub. I have problem knees and I just can't figure out how to get down into the tub. I can get out more easily. I am desperate to take baths again. You are so amazing with all your great tips and have helped me so much. I hope you can help again!

[@metulj22]

Hi, I just found your site... I hope to find some good advice (already have some). I was a keen hiker up until my recent diagnosis of RA (December 2022). Now after one month on meds I feel so much better. Already started walking (biggest problems remain in my ankles). While I was still waiting for my appointement with rheumatologist I tried to ease the pain and rigidity with warm hottubs, but yes, always feared standing up afterward. The problem with me was I had arthritis of knees, ankles, hips and most of all wrists and knuckles, so I could not be able to grab onto something while attempting to get out of the tub. What I had to do, and I found that by myself: I turned onto a belly, found some support on my elbows to get up, get on all 4, and from that position somehow got up. Now it is much easier, knees are better (I can squat), but wrists are still in improvement. You might show any other techniques for painful wrists and knees?

[@barbaramiller349]

You make this look easy. I want a bath so bad but the last time I had one I hurt myself. I cracked my head on the wall and had bruises everywhere

[@ritamariekelley4077]

The cushions--perfect! Thank You! aren't you glad you got that doctorate?:)

[@majesea]

Love these tips thank you! Love your channel so helpful ❤

[@debbeleigh1930]

Thank you ❤ Very helpful! Especially the pads.

[@arthritisadventure]

So glad!

[@WigsGlam]

Great video! Do you have anything regarding if your shoulders are weak how to get out of the tub?

[@bar8419]

My new idea to take a bath. Not perfected yet. I have bad knees and haven't taken a bath for 5 years. I cant take it anymore. Where there is a will, there is a way....... With water in the tub, and using the add and subtract method, I will start with a high position and sit on a number of stacked garden cushions (a number -6?- of gardening cushions)... Then... gradually reducing the cushions until I can lie down in the tub.... Then to get out of the tub by putting one pillow after another under my butt, so it is high enough to stand up easily (like getting off a chair)..... I will experiment until I can take a bath again. Hopefully I will be able to maneuver it so it will be like getting off a chair.... i have hope! I would love to see a video if you think it would help others.

[@arthritisadventure]

Welcome!

[@marecee1054]

I found this video interesting and decided to tried this method out tonight. However it didn't work for me. For one, when I'm trying to get out, I'm not wearing socks, or clothes, and the bathtub still has residual water leftover. You need better gripping in order to do this!

[@madfan1593]

I have ankles that ache so bad, so how do I pull that off with my bad knees and weak ankles

[@jillbeans1573]

Oh my! This is what I really want. A good long soak in the tub. What exercises would be beneficial to building leg strength (or upper body strength) to increase the chances of the dry run success. I am still having difficulty getting up from a low chair with no arms.

[@arthritisadventure]

The movements shown in this video can be helpful: Two SIMPLE ways to help you get out of a low chair or stand from a low toilet kzbin.info/www/bejne/raGlaqaap9SEbdU

[@jillbeans1573]

@@arthritisadventure Thank You!!!

[@dfalco2138]

Thank you!!!

[@arthritisadventure]

You're welcome!

[@dfalco2138]

@@arthritisadventure I tried this method. My weak knee is my right. My tub is situated so I thought this would work perfectly. But alas I’m not strong enough in my thighs, I think. I have several physical constraints to working out. I can’t do anything that puts pressure on my back or that would cause straining in my abdomen. I need exercises that build leg strength without using my core, I guess.

[@mosaiciste]

This is great! Thank you Alyssa. I stopped using my tub (I love baths) and have been showering. I'm excited to try out your suggestion. It's doable!

[@janetthomas6196]

I’m finding it more difficult to get in and out of the bath. It’s like being a contortionist at the Olympics. Do you also have a simple way for people to sit down in the bath from standing? I have to get onto my knees which is painful then get my bum onto the bottom and drag my legs from under me. Not pretty and getting harder to even do that. When getting out I have to spin onto my stomach then get up on my knees. Then hoist myself up using hand rails. Oh the joys Thank you for the video I will try your suggestions tonight

[@lorettazurawski2604]

Where did you get those foam cushions that you use in this video? Thanks.

[@dthomas4501]

Great information! Just subscribed. Thank you!

[@arthritisadventure]

Welcome!

[@catherinerodrigue8547]

What is the name of the this product??

[@juanitamaxwell2093]

I do this when I sit on the floor never thought about a bath tube

[@arthritisadventure]

Yep.

[@katieperry7891]

Love this tytytyty

[@Jean-ni6of]

My shower has four grab bars. And my phone is ALWAYS in reach. I wouldn't consider sitting in my tub.

[@arthritisadventure]

Only do what you are comfortable with

[@yoohootube]

this is such a nice deep tub

[@paintilludrop]

Small tub, looks like you can not stretch legs. Idea of water in tub was interested

[@loveblue2]

This is exactly like the tub in the new build home we moved into 4 years ago. Even at just 5"7", I can't extend my legs flat on the bottom of the tub, which defeats the whole purpose of a relaxing soak. Saving for the cost of replacement and installation of a tub we can actually soak in.

[@rabindramanshrestha142]

I have osteoarthritis in both knee & regenerative arthritis, walking is very difficult due to pain in my knee. Please advise for exercise

[@andreakohuch9118]

Use a bath chair!

[@faustinabeninato948]

You are wonderful, but this is a prescription for a Nursing Home.

[@LisaCSCO]

2:32

[@faustinabeninato948]

It is safer to get a Walk-In Tub.

[@arthritisadventure]

yes, but not everyone has access to one

[@noemichavez2407]

Some of us can’t afford to upgrade it

[@sandybo9097]

Its always that one bougie person that comments

[@brianag9726]

With a walk in tub, don’t you still have to get up after a bath?

[@Kathryn.K]

A lot of people are in rentals that don't have a walk-in tub but even if a person did have a walk-in tub a lot of people that like to be in the bathtub like to lay down in the water like myself a walk-in tub you can't lay down.

[@mikaelaeloise4190]

Nice video mate! Become a YT god - Promo`SM !!